When inserting a percutaneous or laminotomy lead into the cervical region, what is the recommended patient position-prone or lateral?
Patient positioning for placement of cervical stimulation leads varies according to the preference of the implanting physician and patient. Either prone or lateral positioning is acceptable, but percutaneous and open surgical procedures are easier, in general, when the patient is in the prone position. With either approach, care should be taken to assure that a good fluoroscopic image can be obtained (e.g., check for radio-opaque components of the operating room table), and the patient should be sufficiently comfortable to tolerate the procedure.
